April, 2022 | A Lovely Living

Monthly Archives for April 2022

April 27, 2022

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

With Mother’s Day on the horizon, I’ve gathered some gift ideas for all the special women in your life. From the newest mother to the most seasoned, and every important motherly role in your life (because we all know it takes a village), I hope you’re able to express your gratitude to them all this Mother’s Day. Below you’ll find a number of gift ideas which I hope you’ll find as a helpful resource!

Click on images above for shopping details

From pretty to practical and functional, I for one, would be thrilled to receive any of the above! Cute pj’s and the coziest slippers are always a good go-to. As is a pretty pitcher that you could overflow with her favorite flowers. For the mom that’s on the go, running kids here and there, check out this chic cooler, this practical belt bag or a cute visor to hide from the sun during all those games and practices. I can’t think of anyone that wouldn’t love a great tunic for layering or wearing with leggings. Pair it with this beautiful clutch or a fun pair of earrings or even a pair of woven sandals for summer. There’s also pretty stationary that you could personalize, a fabulous cosmetic case or a puzzle that the whole family could join in on. No matter how you decide to express your gratitude this Mother’s Day, I know she’ll be thankful!

April 18, 2022

Strawberry Salad

This salad is a fan favorite that I have been making for years. Someone made it at a school function many years ago and I immediately asked for the recipe which I’ve kept tucked into my notes since then. I love mixing fruit into a salad and when you pair it with slivered candied almonds and raspberry vinaigrette, it makes for one incredibly delicious salad! It’s great for summer gatherings or even paired with some grilled chicken for a quick and healthy dinner.

The only tedious step (which is 1000% worth it) is preparing the candied almonds. I’ll detail the steps for you below, but know that just when you think you’ve burnt them, you’re doing it right ;) I typically double the recipe (or even triple based on the size of the salad), but you may want to do it in batches until you get the hang of it.

Strawberry Salad:

Ingredients:

1/2 C Sliced Almonds (or 1 C if doubling)
3 TBSP Raw Sugar (or 6 TBSP if doubling)
Salad Mix (Spring Mix or Spinach works well)
Sliced Strawberries
1 can Mandarin Oranges
Raspberry Vinaigrette (I use Ken’s)

Directions:

To prepare the candied almonds, over medium heat add the sliced almonds and raw sugar to a skillet and stir constantly for about 3-5 minutes. They will begin to get golden brown. Just when you smell them begin to burn, toss for 30 seconds more and then remove from heat. Spread the almonds across non-stick foil to cool. Once cooled completely, break into small, bite-sized pieces.

To prepare the salad, place washed greens in a large bowl and layer strawberries and oranges on top. I typically arrange them in circles. Top with candied almonds and hold of on the dressing until just before serving.

Enjoy!

April 8, 2022

Easter Gift Guide

_________________________________________

As a Christian, Easter is always a celebration that I look forward to. On our way home from school yesterday, my girls were discussing whether Christmas or Easter was a bigger day to celebrate. We concluded that although Easter couldn’t have come to be if Jesus had not in fact been born, the Good News of Easter and his resurrection is what we are so thankful for. Then as I tucked Audrey (6yo) into bed last night, she reminded me how silly the Easter Bunny is….it was so matter of fact that I didn’t even attempt to convince her otherwise! I’m not sure what will come of Santa, but I’ll keep you posted come December ;)

Easter baskets are still a huge hit in our house (I think my mom put baskets together into my college years!) and I love filling them with little gifts and treats that they’ll enjoy. I put together a mix of cute ideas that may be helpful for your little ones as you celebrate Resurrection Sunday. Simply click any image above for the shopping link and have a wonderful weekend!